The pristine waters and vibrant marine ecosystems of Panama are home to a diverse array of species and provide countless benefits to both local communities and the global environment. Recognizing the importance of preserving this natural treasure, the Marine Protection Alliance has emerged as a driving force in safeguarding the marine environment.

Who is the Marine Protection Alliance?

The Marine Protection Alliance is a collaborative initiative comprised of government agencies, non-profit organizations, local communities, and concerned individuals. Their shared mission is to protect and restore Panama’s marine ecosystems through various conservation efforts, education, and advocacy.

Key Objectives and Initiatives

1. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

The MPAP actively supports the establishment and management of marine protected areas (MPAs) in Panama. By designating specific zones where human activities are regulated or restricted, MPAs help protect critical habitats, biodiversity, and the overall health of the marine ecosystem.

2. Sustainable Fishing Practices

Promoting sustainable fishing practices is another crucial aspect of the MPAP’s work. By collaborating with local fishermen and communities, the alliance aims to implement responsible fishing methods that minimize bycatch, protect endangered species, and ensure the long-term viability of fish stocks.

3. Environmental Education and Outreach

The MPAP recognizes the importance of raising awareness about marine conservation among the public, especially the younger generation. Through educational programs, workshops, and community events, they strive to foster a sense of stewardship and empower individuals to take action in protecting the marine environment.

4. Scientific Research and Monitoring

To support evidence-based decision-making and conservation efforts, the MPAP actively engages in scientific research and monitoring of marine ecosystems in Panama. By studying the health of coral reefs, tracking marine species populations, and assessing the impacts of human activities, they can better understand the challenges and develop effective conservation strategies.

Collaborative Partnership

The Marine Protection Alliance Panama partnership with the Government of Panama, through the Ministry of Public Security to take action to address the threats of illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing (IUU) in Panama’s coastal-marine areas.

Through MPA’s SharkWater vessel, missions will be carried out through surveillance patrols, monitoring, and crime prevention, following the signing of a collaboration agreement on December 28, 2022, between Minseg and the Marine Protection Alliance.

This agreement, which also involves the Ministry of Environment, the Maritime Authority of Panama, and the Authority of Aquatic Resources of Panama, will prevent the excessive and irresponsible exploitation of endangered species and protect wildlife.

The alliance will strengthen the capacity to monitor waters, combat illegal industrial fishing, conduct investigations, and have a greater presence in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) or Territorial Sea (TS) boundaries. 

Source: Mi Ambiente

The Marine Protection Alliance serves as an inspiring model of how diverse stakeholders can come together to protect marine ecosystems, educate the public, and advocate for sustainable practices.

By nurturing a sense of stewardship among the younger generation and implementing responsible conservation strategies, they are paving the way for a more sustainable future for Panama’s oceans and the countless species that depend on them.